Though they’ve been the butt of many jokes over the years and the source of much disdain, Canada’s Nickelback and their frontman/guitarist Chad Kroeger have soldiered on, carving out a highly successful career for themselves, earning legions of fans and racking up various multi-platinum releases.
Admittedly Kroeger himself isn’t exactly innocent when it comes to backlash—look no further than Slipknot/Stone Sour frontman Corey Taylor trading barbs last year—as to why he repeatedly takes a lot of shit.
That said, one prominent metal musician has come to bat for him, that being fellow Canadian, Devin Townsend, who explained his friendship and respect for Kroeger via the following tweets:
As you progress in any field, eventually the ‘lifers’ in a profession find they have a lot more in common than they may have anticipated. For years I was critical of Nickleback for a number of reasons, not the least of which jealousy and falling into the negative public sentiment
— Devin Townsend (@dvntownsend) August 27, 2018
In part, I had heard through the grapevine that the singer (who came up in the same scene I did) was critical of me as well, so when he and I unexpectedly became friends, I took some time to reflect on my thoughts on his band. I saw them play a few years back and it was great
— Devin Townsend (@dvntownsend) August 27, 2018
Over the past few months him and I have spent some good times together, hanging out, playing guitar, and talking. He became a big help to me in that there’s no competition between us, and a lot of things I was struggling with professionally theres no real resource for advice
— Devin Townsend (@dvntownsend) August 27, 2018
Chad is a real person. He’s exceptionally talented at what he does and he’s above all a good dude who helped me when I needed help. He gets a ton of shit, but I have immense respect for the guy now. In fact, Ive met very few brilliant people in this industry, but he’s one of them
— Devin Townsend (@dvntownsend) August 27, 2018
We tried writing together a bit but it seems we’re on very different planets from each other musically, same passion, but it’s coming from a different place. Regardless, Whatever anyone may think of the guy he’s not full of shit in my opinion and I’m glad to know him. Respect.
— Devin Townsend (@dvntownsend) August 27, 2018
Empath recording starts tomorrow. It’s been a journey this process… it’s a very complicated statement, but the point I hope it makes is worth the effort. It’s not particularly easy listening I’m afraid…
— Devin Townsend (@dvntownsend) August 27, 2018
“Empath” is the forthcoming new album from Townsend for which he has recruited numerous guest musicians for in the wake of disbanding the Devin Townsend Project.
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